JP2017535775A - Outside element with light sensor - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a timer outer element (1) having a frame made of a first material, the outer element further comprising at least one light sensor (120). [Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The invention relates to an outer element for a timer having a frame made of a first material and further comprising at least one light sensor.

  A portable object such as a wristwatch provided with a sensor for detecting ultraviolet rays or UV rays is known. These devices have a semiconductor ultraviolet sensor consisting of a GaAsP component with a UV filter.

  One problem with these semiconductor UV sensors is that there is a delay in display and is expensive. Also, since these sensors are electronic, they are not desirable for use in mechanical watches.

  Another known possibility is to use plastic bangles or watch bands containing photochromic dyes, ie dyes that change color in response to light. Such photochromic dyes can be selected to be sensitive to a plurality of wavelengths including ultraviolet wavelengths.

  One challenge with this type of bracelet or watchband is that these colors are single and that the color change depending on the level of ultraviolet light is around this single color. This means that the bracelet whose first color is green changes its darkness from pale green to dark green according to the intensity of ultraviolet rays.

  One challenge with this type of product is that the indication is not accurate. This is because it is difficult to associate a particular shade with one level of ultraviolet light.

  The present invention overcomes the above-mentioned problems of the prior art by proposing a portable object that is easy to implement and that can be read and can be optically indicated in a reliable manner. Related to the outer element.

  To this end, the present invention is an outer element of a timer having a frame made of a first material, the outer element further comprising at least one light sensor, the light sensor comprising a plurality of light sensors. Formed by an optical waveguide having an incident section that guides light toward the photochromic section, wherein the photochromic section includes a photochromic dye that is sensitive to a specific wavelength, and each section includes the photochromic dye Responsive to a specific radiant intensity of the wavelength, and configured to change from a first color to a second color when the specific radiant intensity is reached, the concentration of the dye is between each compartment The purpose is to provide something different.

  This outer element with at least one photosensor according to the invention has the advantage of being easy to read. This is because the change in color indicates that the light intensity threshold has been exceeded. Moreover, it is possible to avoid using an electronic system that consumes much energy.

  In a first preferred embodiment, the compartments are arranged in increasing order from the lowest light intensity to the highest light intensity.

  In a second preferred embodiment, the compartment is configured such that the compartment that responds to the lowest light intensity has the lowest dye concentration and the dye concentration increases as a function of light intensity.

  In a third preferred embodiment, all of the compartments have the same first color.

  In a fourth preferred embodiment, all of the compartments have the same second color.

  In a fifth preferred embodiment, the section is configured to generate shading when the second color has all changed from the first color to the second color.

  In a sixth preferred embodiment, the incident section has a microstructure that allows light to be directed towards the photochromic section.

  In another preferred embodiment, the photochromic section is coated with a UV protection layer so that light incident on the section enters only through the incident section.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame has at least one empty portion, and a pastille material is disposed in the empty portion.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame is a bezel.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame is a windshield.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame is a case middle part of a watch case.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame is a bracelet or a watch band.

  In another preferred embodiment, the bracelet has two bracelet strands made of plastic material, on which the light sensor is arranged.

  In another preferred embodiment, the bracelet has a plurality of links hinged to each other, and the light sensor is disposed on at least one link.

  In another preferred embodiment, the bracelet is closed by a folding buckle clasp, and the light sensor is disposed on the clasp.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame is a crown.

  In another preferred embodiment, the photochromic dye is selected to respond to ultraviolet radiation.

  The advantages of this type of outer element can be clearly understood by reading the following description while examining the drawings.

1 shows a schematic diagram of a timer according to the present invention. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a timer according to the present invention. Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a bezel forming an outer element according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a bezel forming an outer element according to the invention. 1 shows a schematic view of a windshield forming an outer element according to the invention. 1 shows a schematic view of a windshield forming an outer element according to the invention. It is the schematic of the case intermediate part which forms the outer side element which concerns on this invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a bracelet strand forming an outer element according to the present invention. Fig. 3 shows a schematic view of a bracelet strand link forming an outer element according to the invention. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a bracelet clasp forming an outer element according to the invention. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a bracelet clasp forming an outer element according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a front board forming an outer element according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a front board forming an outer element according to the invention. It is the schematic of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention.

  The present invention relates to the outer element 1 of a timer or watch 100.

  A timer 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is, for example, a wristwatch and includes a case 102. This case is formed by a case intermediate portion 104, which is closed by a back cover 106 and a windshield 108. The timer further includes a bracelet or a watch band 110. The bracelet or wristwatch band 110 is fixed to the middle part of the case via two pairs of horns 112. A bracelet is formed by two bracelet strands, each strand being fixed to a pair of horns and connected to the other strand via a clasp.

  The outer element 1 has a frame made of a first material. This first material can be a metallic or plastic material.

  At least one photosensor 120 is disposed on the frame. This light sensor is used to allow the user to see the current light intensity relative to the reference. In fact, the UV index that is used to provide information about ultraviolet radiation intensity is known. Thus, there is a minimum threshold on which information about the ultraviolet radiation intensity can be viewed.

  Preferably, according to the present invention, the light sensor has at least one photochromic pastille material 122. This photochromic pastille material is made primarily of a photochromic dye, such as that defined in US Patent Application No. 520813A. This is dispersed in an organic or inorganic matrix. This matrix is a binder that serves as a support for the dye.

  Such a photochromic dye has a first color, but when the radiation intensity reaches a value specific to the dye, it changes to a second color. Here, this radiation intensity is a radiation intensity of ultraviolet rays having a wavelength of 100 to 400 nm.

  This feature allows visual indication that the ultraviolet radiation intensity threshold is exceeded.

  In a preferred embodiment, the light sensor can display a scale of light intensity. In order to achieve this, the photosensor has a plurality of photochromic pastilles 122. Each piezochromic pastille material contains a dye that reacts with a particular strength. As a result, each pastille 122 changes color when it reaches a certain radiation intensity. In order to achieve a light intensity scale, the specific radiation intensity in the plurality of pastilles 122 is such that it increases. Therefore, when a user carrying a portable object moves under sunlight, the colors of the plurality of pastille materials change in stages, thereby providing visual indication. These pastille materials 122 are joined or separated from each other.

  In a preferred variant, the colors of the various pastilles that form the light intensity scale are all the first color in the rest state. That is, they are the same color. This means that if the light intensity level is smaller than the minimum threshold, the colors of the pastille materials are all the same.

  In another preferred variant, the colors of the various pastilles that form the light intensity scale are all second colors if such a specific threshold is reached. That is, the colors of these pastille materials are all the same. This means that at the maximum measurable light intensity, the pastille colors are all the same.

  In another preferred variant, the various pastilles that form the light intensity scale all have the same first color, but not all these second colors are the same, generating shading. Be made to be able to. Specifically, when these pastille materials form a light intensity scale, the first pastille material group that changes color is brighter than the last pastille material group that changes color. It has comprised so that it may have. For example, the first pastille group is yellow and the last pastille group is red. This gives the following double indication: That is, the user not only knows that the light intensity increases as the number of pastilles that change color increases, but also the maximum intensity when the color is fluctuating and dark You can see that it is close to.

  Here it can be seen that the photochromic dye is of the reversible type. This means that when a specific light intensity threshold is reached or exceeded, the dye changes color from the first color to the second color, but again when the light intensity falls below the specific threshold. , Meaning that the dye changes from the second color to the first color.

  The matrix used for dye dispersion can be of various types.

  The first matrix category includes inks, lacquers and paints. The matrix is composed of an elastomeric binder mixed with at least one solvent, plasticizer and dispersant. Such a matrix can be a crosslinked polyurethane.

  The second matrix category includes thermoplastic granules. This matrix is composed of a resin mixed with at least one dispersant and a plasticizer.

  The third matrix category includes rubber mixtures. This matrix comprises at least an elastomer mixed with a charged substance, a dispersant and a vulcanization system. In this category, an insert containing the photochromic dye can be made to form a mosaic.

  The fourth matrix category contains thermosetting mixtures. This mixture is constituted by a liquid resin mixed with at least one dispersant.

Accordingly, a pastille material having the form of a transparent organic / inorganic insert (polymethyl methacrylate, acrylic resin, epoxy, chemical formula SiO ₂ , Al ₂ O ₃ or C untreated glass) can be obtained. This insert can be silk-screened on the surface using photochromic dye-based inks, or the photochromic ink can be dispersed in the material forming the insert.

  In the first implementation, the outer element is a bezel 114 as shown in FIGS. The bezel 114 can be a rotating bezel or a fixed bezel. In the case of a fixed bezel, the bezel is a ring that is fixed to the case middle so that it cannot rotate, or is incorporated directly into the case middle 104, thereby forming the case middle-bezel To do.

  Such a bezel 114 has an upper side wall 114a that is the surface seen by the user, and in the case of a rotating bezel, a vertical wall 114b that allows the user to rotate the bezel.

  In this embodiment, a pastille material 122 containing a photoelectric dye is disposed on an upper side wall 114a that serves as a visible surface.

  When the pastille material 122 has the form of ink or paint, these pastille materials are silk-screened on the upper side wall. The scale can also be silkscreened to associate numerical indications with the photochromic pastille material. Of course, different pastille materials 122a can display important values such as 500 lux, 1000 lux, 20000 lux and 100,000 lux.

  When the pastille material is in the form of an insert, a void (not shown) is provided in the upper side wall 114a of the bezel 114. The number of voids is the same as the number of inserts. Here, the insert can be placed and fixed in the void, for example, by adhesive bonding. However, the insert can be overmolded in the void. This allows the bezel to have a two-material appearance if the metal bezel has a rubber insert.

  The light sensor 120 can be placed on one quarter, one third, or half of the bezel.

In the second embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the outer element is a portable draft shield 108. The windshield 108 is fixed to the case middle portion 104, and has an upper side surface 108a, a lower side surface 108b, and a side edge portion 108c for attachment.

  In the second embodiment, the photochromic pastille material 122 is disposed on the upper side surface 108a of the windshield. If the selected transparent material allows UV radiation to pass, these pastilles 122 can be placed on the underside of the windshield.

  If the pastille material 122 is in the form of ink or paint, these pastille materials are silkscreened on the upper side surface 108a. The scale can also be silkscreened to associate numerical indications with photochromic pastilles. This scale can also be silkscreened on the bezel.

  In one variant, the draft shield has a very small height 108d. These voids allow photochromic ink to be placed in the voids while ensuring that the surface of the windshield 108 is completely smooth. This can reduce the risk of the ink missing due to impact.

  When the pastille material 122 has the form of an insert, the windshield 108 has an empty portion 108d on the upper side surface 108a. The number of voids is the same as the number of inserts. Here, for example, the insert can be disposed and fixed in the hollow portion by adhesive bonding. However, it is also possible to overmold the insert in the void. In this way, a windshield having the appearance of two materials can be obtained.

  In both cases, the photochromic pastille material 122 can be placed on the top side of the windshield, but the light intensity numbers can be placed on the front panel or under the windshield. .

  In the third embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the outer element 30 is a portable case intermediate portion 104.

  As in the first and second embodiments, the photochromic pastille material 122 in the form of ink or insert is arranged directly on the case intermediate part or in the empty part formed in the case intermediate part. Or The number of the light intensity indicator can be silk-screened on the case middle part or etched on the case middle part.

  In the fourth embodiment, the outer element is a bracelet or a watch band 110. Actually, the timer is provided with a bracelet fixed to the middle part of the case via two pairs of horns.

  In the first case shown in FIG. 8, the bracelet 110 is formed by two bracelet strands 110a, and each strand is fixed to a pair of horns 112 and connected to the other strand via a clasp 111. Is done. Preferably, the bracelet strand 110a is made of rubber or plastic.

  Several methods are conceivable for the configuration of the photochromic pastille material 122.

  The first approach involves depositing the ink on the surface of the bracelet strand using ink pellets.

  The second technique involves using a pastille insert and placing and fixing the insert in a void provided in the bracelet link.

  A third approach involves depositing the ink on a flexible support using ink pellets. This flexible support is then inserted inside the bracelet strand so that the group of pastilles can be seen.

  In the second case shown in FIG. 9, the bracelet is made of metal and is formed by a plurality of links 110b attached to each other by pins. As a result, it is possible to obtain the links 110b that can carry the photochromic pastille material and can rotate relative to each other.

  The bracelet strand further has a clasp. The clasp is here shown in the form of a folding buckle 111. This folding buckle is generally formed by three parts 111a, 111b, 111c like sidebars hinged to each other. Two of these parts are fixed to the link.

  In this way, the parts forming the folding buckle are hinged to each other, one of these parts is located on top of the other and the three parts 111a, 111b, 111c are one It is configured to form a part. This configuration allows the bracelet to be stretched momentarily for attachment to the user's wrist.

  Then, a photochromic pastille material in the form of ink or an insert is disposed on the bracelet link 110b directly on the bracelet or in a hollow portion formed on the bracelet.

  Preferably, each link 110b carries a photochromic pastille material.

  More preferably, the photochromic pastille material is disposed on a link disposed between the pair of horns at the 6 o'clock position and the folding buckle. In fact, when the timer is on the user's wrist, the link located between the 6 o'clock horn pair and the folding buckle is the most accessible to the user. All you have to do is turn your wrist to see them. You can see them better when your arm is on the table or desk. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent an excessively visible display on the front panel by providing a pastille material on the windshield or bezel while providing good visibility.

  In the fifth embodiment shown in FIGS. 10-12, the outer element is a clasp 111, ie a foldable buckle of a bracelet. This foldable buckle is generally formed from three parts such as sidebars hinged together. Two of these parts are fixed to the link. In this way, the parts forming the foldable buckle are hinged together so that one of them is positioned over the other and the three parts form a single part. It is composed. In some folding buckle models, one of the parts serves as the main part 111a. This is because the main part accommodates the other two parts 111b and 111c. This main part is a part visible from the outside. Therefore, the user sees one part in the form of a metal plate from the outside. On this metal plate, marking such as a trade name can be performed.

  Preferably, the present invention uses this surface for photosensor construction. Thus, as shown in FIG. 10, a photochromic pastille material is arrange | positioned on this surface of the center part 111a of a folding buckle.

  The photochromic pastille material can be aligned with or associated with the numerical scale of the indicator. However, as shown in FIG. 11, the pastille material can be configured to have different sizes according to the light intensity. For example, the pastille material can have the form of a bar that increases in size as the radiant intensity increases. As a result, the user can obtain reliable information without indication numbers.

  In the sixth embodiment shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the outer element is the faceplate of the timer. In fact, it can be conceived that the photochromic pastille material is deposited directly on the front plate, assuming that the windshield of the timer is theoretically sufficiently transparent. This configuration preferably avoids any risk of damage associated with scratches and impacts.

  This embodiment is possible when the windshield 108 is not provided with a filter coating and the entire light beam having a specific wavelength can be captured by the photochromic pastille material 122.

In the second embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the optical sensor 120 is constituted by an optical waveguide 1200. The optical waveguide 1200 is composed of a plurality of pastille materials. These pastille materials here have the form of compartments 1201 joined or joined together. The various compartments 1201 can have the same or different wavelengths as required. Skillfully, each compartment 1201 is made of a material suitable for an optical waveguide such as sapphire or plastic such as polymethyl methacrylate, and is manufactured so that the photochromic dye is integrated into the material. The In this way, the photosensor 120 is configured such that each section 1201 has a different photochromic dye concentration C _i such that the concentration C _i increases. With this configuration, the optical sensor can operate as follows.

This operation involves recognizing the light beam entering the optical waveguide. An incident section 1202 can be used for this purpose. The incident section 1202 includes a microstructure 1203, which is arranged in this section to guide light from the outside towards the other sections. The other section 1201 is arranged from the lowest density section to the highest density section so that the section with the lowest density C _i is arranged immediately after the incident section 1202. In this way, depending on the light intensity, the luminous flux passes through different compartments 1201 until it reaches a compartment 1201 containing a dye that reacts with a specific intensity. Note that as the light beam travels from the partition 1201 to the partition, more light is diffused, and the light beam reduces the intensity more. Therefore, as the intensity of the light beam entering the incident section 1202 increases, the intensity in the section 1201 increases, the number of reacting dyes increases, and the number of sections 1201 that darken increases. The chosen approach can also have a color gradient in the compartment that is proportional to the gradient of light intensity.

  In one example, the outer element is a bezel. This bezel has a hollow portion, and an optical sensor 120 is disposed therein. Here, this optical sensor has eleven compartments 1201. These are distributed so as to include an incident section and ten sections 1201 containing a photochromic dye. The incident section 1202 acquires light through the upper side surface 1202a, which is a visible surface, and contains the microstructure 1203. Thereby, the direction of the light beam can be formed at 90 ° with respect to the other sections. Assuming the above-described configuration of the compartment, the compartment incorporating the photochromic dye is covered with an ultraviolet protective layer (ultraviolet ray countermeasure) 1204 having a thickness of 15 μm to 150 μm. Prevent entry through the side.

  In one exemplary embodiment, the minimum concentration is 0.05% and the maximum concentration is 1.5%. The spacing between each compartment 1201 can be between 1 mm and 5 mm, and is preferably 1 mm for greater resolution.

  Of course, the variant of the first embodiment can also be applied to this embodiment. For example, color management. This is because all sections may have the same first color, or the same second color, or a different second color or shading.

  Various modifications and / or improvements and / or combinations apparent to those skilled in the art may be made to the various embodiments of the present invention described above without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. Obviously you can.

  Thus, it can be envisaged to use photochromic dyes that are sensitive to radiation of other wavelengths, such as infrared and visible light spectra. Moreover, it is preferable that the optical sensor can detect UV-A rays having a wavelength of 400 to 315 nm or UV-B rays having a wavelength of 315 to 280 nm, or UV-C rays having a wavelength of 280 to 100 nm. Can also be detected.

  It can also have several optical sensors, each with a sensor that is sensitive to a specific wavelength. Here, UV-A rays having a wavelength of 400 to 315 nm or UV-B rays having a wavelength of 315 to 280 nm can be detected, or UV-C rays having a wavelength of 280 to 100 nm can be detected. You can get something you can carry.

  In another variant, pastilles combine photochromic functions with other functions. For example, a luminescent dye can be used in an application in a diver's watch to make it visible for a light sensor. In this case, the light emitting layer is disposed under the photochromic layer. Here, the photochromic layer is configured to be sensitive to the first wavelength range, and the light-emitting layer is configured to be sensitive to the second wavelength range. For example, a photochromic dye can respond to a wavelength of 280 to 400 nm, and a luminescent dye located under the photochromic dye can respond to a wavelength of 100 to 250 nm. As a result, in the daytime, the photochromic dye changes from a transparent state to a colored state due to UV level indication, and at night, the photochromic dye is in a transparent state, so that the luminescent dye is used for time. It is possible to display the circle and thus show time information. In another example, it can be envisioned that a thermochromic dye can be used to react to a critical temperature threshold generated by the light intensity on the sensor.

  The invention relates to an outer element for a timer having a frame made of a first material and further comprising at least one light sensor.

  A portable object such as a wristwatch provided with a sensor for detecting ultraviolet rays or UV rays is known. These devices have a semiconductor ultraviolet sensor consisting of a GaAsP component with a UV filter.

  One problem with these semiconductor UV sensors is that there is a delay in display and is expensive. Also, since these sensors are electronic, they are not desirable for use in mechanical watches.

  Another known possibility is to use plastic bangles or watch bands containing photochromic dyes, ie dyes that change color in response to light. Such photochromic dyes can be selected to be sensitive to a plurality of wavelengths including ultraviolet wavelengths.

  One challenge with this type of bracelet or watchband is that these colors are single and that the color change depending on the level of ultraviolet light is around this single color. This means that the bracelet whose first color is green changes its darkness from pale green to dark green according to the intensity of ultraviolet rays.

  One challenge with this type of product is that the indication is not accurate. This is because it is difficult to associate a particular shade with one level of ultraviolet light.

  The present invention overcomes the above-mentioned problems of the prior art by proposing a portable object that is easy to implement and that can be read and can be optically indicated in a reliable manner. Related to the outer element.

  To this end, the present invention is an outer element of a timer having a frame made of a first material, the outer element further comprising at least one light sensor, the light sensor comprising a light Formed by an optical waveguide having an incident section that guides light from the incident direction to a plurality of photochromic sections, wherein the photochromic section includes a photochromic dye that is sensitive to a specific wavelength, The photochromic dye is configured to change from the first color to the second color when reaching the specific radiation intensity in response to the specific radiation intensity of the specific wavelength, and the concentration of the dye is The photochromic sections are arranged along a direction perpendicular to the incident direction of light, and the plurality of photochromic sections are different from each other. Located on the side of the incident section, the concentration of the dye in each section is increased from the side of the incident section, and the photochromic section is covered with a UV protection layer, thereby entering the section It is an object of the present invention to provide light that is incident only through the incident section.

  This outer element with at least one photosensor according to the invention has the advantage of being easy to read. This is because the change in color indicates that the light intensity threshold has been exceeded. Moreover, it is possible to avoid using an electronic system that consumes much energy.

  In a first preferred embodiment, the compartments are arranged in increasing order from the lowest light intensity to the highest light intensity.

  In a second preferred embodiment, the compartment is configured such that the compartment that responds to the lowest light intensity has the lowest dye concentration and the dye concentration increases as a function of light intensity.

  In a third preferred embodiment, all of the compartments have the same first color.

  In a fourth preferred embodiment, all of the compartments have the same second color.

  In a fifth preferred embodiment, the section is configured to generate shading when the second color has all changed from the first color to the second color.

  In a sixth preferred embodiment, the incident section has a microstructure that allows light to be directed towards the photochromic section.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame has at least one empty portion, and a pastille material is disposed in the empty portion.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame is a bezel.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame is a windshield.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame is a case middle part of a watch case.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame is a bracelet or a watch band.

  In another preferred embodiment, the bracelet has two bracelet strands made of plastic material, on which the light sensor is arranged.

  In another preferred embodiment, the bracelet has a plurality of links hinged to each other, and the light sensor is disposed on at least one link.

  In another preferred embodiment, the bracelet is closed by a folding buckle clasp, and the light sensor is disposed on the clasp.

  In another preferred embodiment, the frame is a crown.

  In another preferred embodiment, the photochromic dye is selected to respond to ultraviolet radiation.

  The advantages of this type of outer element can be clearly understood by reading the following description while examining the drawings.

1 shows a schematic diagram of a timer according to the present invention. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a timer according to the present invention. Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a bezel forming an outer element according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a bezel forming an outer element according to the invention. 1 shows a schematic view of a windshield forming an outer element according to the invention. 1 shows a schematic view of a windshield forming an outer element according to the invention. It is the schematic of the case intermediate part which forms the outer side element which concerns on this invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a bracelet strand forming an outer element according to the present invention. Fig. 3 shows a schematic view of a bracelet strand link forming an outer element according to the invention. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a bracelet clasp forming an outer element according to the invention. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a bracelet clasp forming an outer element according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a front board forming an outer element according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a front board forming an outer element according to the invention. It is the schematic of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention.

  Figures 1-13 illustrate a known embodiment and are provided for providing information.

  The present invention relates to the outer element 1 of a timer or watch 100.

  A timer 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is, for example, a wristwatch and includes a case 102. This case is formed by a case intermediate portion 104, which is closed by a back cover 106 and a windshield 108. The timer further includes a bracelet or a watch band 110. The bracelet or wristwatch band 110 is fixed to the middle part of the case via two pairs of horns 112. A bracelet is formed by two bracelet strands, each strand being fixed to a pair of horns and connected to the other strand via a clasp.

  The outer element 1 has a frame made of a first material. This first material can be a metallic or plastic material.

  At least one photosensor 120 is disposed on the frame. This light sensor is used to allow the user to see the current light intensity relative to the reference. In fact, the UV index that is used to provide information about ultraviolet radiation intensity is known. Thus, there is a minimum threshold on which information about the ultraviolet radiation intensity can be viewed.

  Preferably, according to the present invention, the light sensor has at least one photochromic pastille material 122. This photochromic pastille material is made primarily of photochromic dyes, such as those defined in US Pat. No. 5,208,132A. This is dispersed in an organic or inorganic matrix. This matrix is a binder that serves as a support for the dye.

  Such a photochromic dye has a first color, but when the radiation intensity reaches a value specific to the dye, it changes to a second color. Here, this radiation intensity is a radiation intensity of ultraviolet rays having a wavelength of 100 to 400 nm.

  This feature allows visual indication that the ultraviolet radiation intensity threshold is exceeded.

  In a preferred embodiment, the light sensor can display a scale of light intensity. In order to achieve this, the photosensor has a plurality of photochromic pastilles 122. Each piezochromic pastille material contains a dye that reacts with a particular strength. As a result, each pastille 122 changes color when it reaches a certain radiation intensity. In order to achieve a light intensity scale, the specific radiation intensity in the plurality of pastilles 122 is such that it increases. Therefore, when a user carrying a portable object moves under sunlight, the colors of the plurality of pastille materials change in stages, thereby providing visual indication. These pastille materials 122 are joined or separated from each other.

  In a preferred variant, the colors of the various pastilles that form the light intensity scale are all the first color in the rest state. That is, they are the same color. This means that if the light intensity level is smaller than the minimum threshold, the colors of the pastille materials are all the same.

  In another preferred variant, the colors of the various pastilles that form the light intensity scale are all second colors if such a specific threshold is reached. That is, the colors of these pastille materials are all the same. This means that at the maximum measurable light intensity, the pastille colors are all the same.

  In another preferred variant, the various pastilles that form the light intensity scale all have the same first color, but not all these second colors are the same, generating shading. Be made to be able to. Specifically, when these pastille materials form a light intensity scale, the first pastille material group that changes color is brighter than the last pastille material group that changes color. It has comprised so that it may have. For example, the first pastille group is yellow and the last pastille group is red. This gives the following double indication: That is, the user not only knows that the light intensity increases as the number of pastilles that change color increases, but also the maximum intensity when the color is fluctuating and dark You can see that it is close to.

  Here it can be seen that the photochromic dye is of the reversible type. This means that when a specific light intensity threshold is reached or exceeded, the dye changes color from the first color to the second color, but again when the light intensity falls below the specific threshold. , Meaning that the dye changes from the second color to the first color.

  The matrix used for dye dispersion can be of various types.

  The first matrix category includes inks, lacquers and paints. The matrix is composed of an elastomeric binder mixed with at least one solvent, plasticizer and dispersant. Such a matrix can be a crosslinked polyurethane.

  The second matrix category includes thermoplastic granules. This matrix is composed of a resin mixed with at least one dispersant and a plasticizer.

  The third matrix category includes rubber mixtures. This matrix comprises at least an elastomer mixed with a charged substance, a dispersant and a vulcanization system. In this category, an insert containing the photochromic dye can be made to form a mosaic.

  The fourth matrix category contains thermosetting mixtures. This mixture is constituted by a liquid resin mixed with at least one dispersant.

Accordingly, a pastille material having the form of a transparent organic / inorganic insert (polymethyl methacrylate, acrylic resin, epoxy, chemical formula SiO ₂ , Al ₂ O ₃ or C untreated glass) can be obtained. This insert can be silk-screened on the surface using photochromic dye-based inks, or the photochromic ink can be dispersed in the material forming the insert.

  In the first implementation, the outer element is a bezel 114 as shown in FIGS. The bezel 114 can be a rotating bezel or a fixed bezel. In the case of a fixed bezel, the bezel is a ring that is fixed to the case middle so that it cannot rotate, or is incorporated directly into the case middle 104, thereby forming the case middle-bezel To do.

  Such a bezel 114 has an upper side wall 114a that is the surface seen by the user, and in the case of a rotating bezel, a vertical wall 114b that allows the user to rotate the bezel.

  In this embodiment, a pastille material 122 containing a photoelectric dye is disposed on an upper side wall 114a that serves as a visible surface.

  When the pastille material 122 has the form of ink or paint, these pastille materials are silk-screened on the upper side wall. The scale can also be silkscreened to associate numerical indications with the photochromic pastille material. Of course, different pastille materials 122a can display important values such as 500 lux, 1000 lux, 20000 lux and 100,000 lux.

  When the pastille material is in the form of an insert, a void (not shown) is provided in the upper side wall 114a of the bezel 114. The number of voids is the same as the number of inserts. Here, the insert can be placed and fixed in the void, for example, by adhesive bonding. However, the insert can be overmolded in the void. This allows the bezel to have a two-material appearance if the metal bezel has a rubber insert.

  The light sensor 120 can be placed on one quarter, one third, or half of the bezel.

In the second embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the outer element is a portable draft shield 108. The windshield 108 is fixed to the case middle portion 104, and has an upper side surface 108a, a lower side surface 108b, and a side edge portion 108c for attachment.

  In the second embodiment, the photochromic pastille material 122 is disposed on the upper side surface 108a of the windshield. If the selected transparent material allows UV radiation to pass, these pastilles 122 can be placed on the underside of the windshield.

  If the pastille material 122 is in the form of ink or paint, these pastille materials are silkscreened on the upper side surface 108a. The scale can also be silkscreened to associate numerical indications with photochromic pastilles. This scale can also be silkscreened on the bezel.

  In one variant, the draft shield has a very small height 108d. These voids allow photochromic ink to be placed in the voids while ensuring that the surface of the windshield 108 is completely smooth. This can reduce the risk of the ink missing due to impact.

  When the pastille material 122 has the form of an insert, the windshield 108 has an empty portion 108d on the upper side surface 108a. The number of voids is the same as the number of inserts. Here, for example, the insert can be disposed and fixed in the hollow portion by adhesive bonding. However, it is also possible to overmold the insert in the void. In this way, a windshield having the appearance of two materials can be obtained.

  In both cases, the photochromic pastille material 122 can be placed on the top side of the windshield, but the light intensity numbers can be placed on the front panel or under the windshield. .

  In the third embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the outer element 30 is a portable case intermediate portion 104.

  As in the first and second embodiments, the photochromic pastille material 122 in the form of ink or insert is arranged directly on the case intermediate part or in the empty part formed in the case intermediate part. Or The number of the light intensity indicator can be silk-screened on the case middle part or etched on the case middle part.

  In the fourth embodiment, the outer element is a bracelet or a watch band 110. Actually, the timer is provided with a bracelet fixed to the middle part of the case via two pairs of horns.

  In the first case shown in FIG. 8, the bracelet 110 is formed by two bracelet strands 110a, and each strand is fixed to a pair of horns 112 and connected to the other strand via a clasp 111. Is done. Preferably, the bracelet strand 110a is made of rubber or plastic.

  Several methods are conceivable for the configuration of the photochromic pastille material 122.

  The first approach involves depositing the ink on the surface of the bracelet strand using ink pellets.

  The second technique involves using a pastille insert and placing and fixing the insert in a void provided in the bracelet link.

  A third approach involves depositing the ink on a flexible support using ink pellets. This flexible support is then inserted inside the bracelet strand so that the group of pastilles can be seen.

  In the second case shown in FIG. 9, the bracelet is made of metal and is formed by a plurality of links 110b attached to each other by pins. As a result, it is possible to obtain the links 110b that can carry the photochromic pastille material and can rotate relative to each other.

  The bracelet strand further has a clasp. The clasp is here shown in the form of a folding buckle 111. This folding buckle is generally formed by three parts 111a, 111b, 111c like sidebars hinged to each other. Two of these parts are fixed to the link.

  In this way, the parts forming the folding buckle are hinged to each other, one of these parts is located on top of the other and the three parts 111a, 111b, 111c are one It is configured to form a part. This configuration allows the bracelet to be stretched momentarily for attachment to the user's wrist.

  Then, a photochromic pastille material in the form of ink or an insert is disposed on the bracelet link 110b directly on the bracelet or in a hollow portion formed on the bracelet.

  Preferably, each link 110b carries a photochromic pastille material.

  More preferably, the photochromic pastille material is disposed on a link disposed between the pair of horns at the 6 o'clock position and the folding buckle. In fact, when the timer is on the user's wrist, the link located between the 6 o'clock horn pair and the folding buckle is the most accessible to the user. All you have to do is turn your wrist to see them. You can see them better when your arm is on the table or desk. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent an excessively visible display on the front panel by providing a pastille material on the windshield or bezel while providing good visibility.

  In the fifth embodiment shown in FIGS. 10-12, the outer element is a clasp 111, ie a foldable buckle of a bracelet. This foldable buckle is generally formed from three parts such as sidebars hinged together. Two of these parts are fixed to the link. In this way, the parts forming the foldable buckle are hinged together so that one of them is positioned over the other and the three parts form a single part. It is composed. In some folding buckle models, one of the parts serves as the main part 111a. This is because the main part accommodates the other two parts 111b and 111c. This main part is a part visible from the outside. Therefore, the user sees one part in the form of a metal plate from the outside. On this metal plate, marking such as a trade name can be performed.

  Preferably, the present invention uses this surface for photosensor construction. Thus, as shown in FIG. 10, a photochromic pastille material is arrange | positioned on this surface of the center part 111a of a folding buckle.

  The photochromic pastille material can be aligned with or associated with the numerical scale of the indicator. However, as shown in FIG. 11, the pastille material can be configured to have different sizes according to the light intensity. For example, the pastille material can have the form of a bar that increases in size as the radiant intensity increases. As a result, the user can obtain reliable information without indication numbers.

  In the sixth embodiment shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the outer element is the faceplate of the timer. In fact, it can be conceived that the photochromic pastille material is deposited directly on the front plate, assuming that the windshield of the timer is theoretically sufficiently transparent. This configuration preferably avoids any risk of damage associated with scratches and impacts.

  This embodiment is possible when the windshield 108 is not provided with a filter coating and the entire light beam having a specific wavelength can be captured by the photochromic pastille material 122.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 14, the optical sensor 120 is constituted by an optical waveguide 1200. The optical waveguide 1200 is composed of a plurality of pastille materials. These pastille materials here have the form of compartments 1201 joined or joined together. The various compartments 1201 can have the same or different wavelengths as required. Skillfully, each compartment 1201 is made of a material suitable for an optical waveguide such as sapphire or plastic such as polymethyl methacrylate, and is manufactured so that the photochromic dye is integrated into the material. The In this way, the photosensor 120 is configured such that each section 1201 has a different photochromic dye concentration C _i such that the concentration C _i increases. With this configuration, the optical sensor can operate as follows.

This operation involves recognizing the light beam entering the optical waveguide. An incident section 1202 can be used for this purpose. The incident section 1202 includes a microstructure 1203, which is arranged in this section to guide light from the outside towards the other sections. The other section 1201 is arranged from the lowest density section to the highest density section so that the section with the lowest density C _i is arranged immediately after the incident section 1202. In this way, depending on the light intensity, the luminous flux passes through different compartments 1201 until it reaches a compartment 1201 containing a dye that reacts with a specific intensity. Note that as the light beam travels from the partition 1201 to the partition, more light is diffused, and the light beam reduces the intensity more. Therefore, as the intensity of the light beam entering the incident section 1202 increases, the intensity in the section 1201 increases, the number of reacting dyes increases, and the number of sections 1201 that darken increases. The chosen approach can also have a color gradient in the compartment that is proportional to the gradient of light intensity.

  In one example, the outer element is a bezel. This bezel has a hollow portion, and an optical sensor 120 is disposed therein. Here, this optical sensor has eleven compartments 1201. These are distributed so as to include an incident section and ten sections 1201 containing a photochromic dye. The incident section 1202 acquires light through the upper side surface 1202a, which is a visible surface, and contains the microstructure 1203. Thereby, the direction of the light beam can be formed at 90 ° with respect to the other sections. Assuming the above-described configuration of the compartment, the compartment incorporating the photochromic dye is covered with an ultraviolet protective layer (ultraviolet ray countermeasure) 1204 having a thickness of 15 μm to 150 μm. Prevent entry through the side.

  In one exemplary embodiment, the minimum concentration is 0.05% and the maximum concentration is 1.5%. The spacing between each compartment 1201 can be between 1 mm and 5 mm, and is preferably 1 mm for greater resolution.

  Of course, the variant of the first embodiment can also be applied to this embodiment. For example, color management. This is because all sections may have the same first color, or the same second color, or a different second color or shading.

  Various modifications and / or improvements and / or combinations apparent to those skilled in the art may be made to the various embodiments of the present invention described above without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. Obviously you can.

  Thus, it can be envisaged to use photochromic dyes that are sensitive to radiation of other wavelengths, such as infrared and visible light spectra. Moreover, it is preferable that the optical sensor can detect UV-A rays having a wavelength of 400 to 315 nm or UV-B rays having a wavelength of 315 to 280 nm, or UV-C rays having a wavelength of 280 to 100 nm. Can also be detected.

  It can also have several optical sensors, each with a sensor that is sensitive to a specific wavelength. Here, UV-A rays having a wavelength of 400 to 315 nm or UV-B rays having a wavelength of 315 to 280 nm can be detected, or UV-C rays having a wavelength of 280 to 100 nm can be detected. You can get something you can carry.

  In another variant, pastilles combine photochromic functions with other functions. For example, a luminescent dye can be used in an application in a diver's watch to make it visible for a light sensor. In this case, the light emitting layer is disposed under the photochromic layer. Here, the photochromic layer is configured to be sensitive to the first wavelength range, and the light-emitting layer is configured to be sensitive to the second wavelength range. For example, a photochromic dye can respond to a wavelength of 280 to 400 nm, and a luminescent dye located under the photochromic dye can respond to a wavelength of 100 to 250 nm. As a result, in the daytime, the photochromic dye changes from a transparent state to a colored state due to UV level indication, and at night, the photochromic dye is in a transparent state, so that the luminescent dye is used for time. It is possible to display the circle and thus show time information. In another example, it can be envisioned that a thermochromic dye can be used to react to a critical temperature threshold generated by the light intensity on the sensor.

Claims (18)

An outer element (1) of a timer having a frame made of a first material,
The outer element further comprises at least one light sensor (120);
The optical sensor is formed by an optical waveguide (1200) having an incident section (1202) that directs light toward a plurality of photochromic sections (1201),
The photochromic compartment contains a photochromic dye that is sensitive to a particular wavelength;
Each compartment is configured to change from a first color to a second color when the photochromic dye is responsive to a specific radiant intensity at the specific wavelength and reaches the specific radiant intensity;
The outer element characterized in that the concentration (C) of the dye varies between the compartments. The outer element according to claim 1, characterized in that the compartments (1201) are arranged in an increasing order from the lowest light intensity to the highest light intensity. The compartment is configured such that the pigment concentration of the compartment (1201) that responds to the lowest light intensity is lowest and the dye concentration (C _i ) increases as a function of light intensity. 3. The outer element according to 2. 3. An outer element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that all the compartments have the same first color. 5. The outer element of claim 4, wherein all of the compartments have the same second color. 5. The partition according to claim 4, wherein the second color is configured to generate shading when all of the partitions have changed from the first color to the second color. The outer element of the description. The outer element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the incident section (1202) has a microstructure (1203) that allows light to be directed towards the photochromic section. The photochromic section (1201) is covered with an ultraviolet protective layer so that light incident on the section enters only through the incident section. The outer element. The outer element according to claim 1, wherein the frame has at least one hollow portion, and an optical sensor is disposed in the hollow portion. The outer element according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the frame is a bezel (114). 10. The outer element according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the frame is a windshield (108). 10. The outer element according to claim 1, wherein the frame is a case middle part (104) of a watch case (102). 10. The outer element according to claim 1, wherein the frame is a bracelet or a wristwatch band (110). 14. The outer side according to claim 13, characterized in that the bracelet has two bracelet strands (110a) made of plastic material, on which the optical sensor is arranged. element. The bracelet has a plurality of links (110a) hinged to each other;
14. The outer element according to claim 13, wherein the light sensor is arranged on at least one link. The bracelet is closed by a folding buckle clasp (111),
14. The outer element according to claim 13, wherein the light sensor is disposed on the clasp. The outer element according to claim 1, wherein the frame is a crown. 18. The outer element according to any of claims 1 to 17, wherein the photochromic dye is selected to be responsive to ultraviolet radiation.

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